Flowers and Seaside Fun

Exciting Events and Happenings Early in the Spring

3 APRIL~MAY

Yilan County, situated in the northeast corner of Taiwan, is known for its agriculture – mostly on the triangular-shaped Lanyang Plain. It’s the perfect location for an exposition that highlights green tourism and protection of the natural environment. This expo presents an abundance of information on leading a green lifestyle, as well as cultural/artistic performances and horticultural displays. The event promotes environmental education and awareness of local industries, such as agriculture, fisheries, and tourism.

2023.yilangreenexpo.campaign.tw (2023 Yilan Green Expo)

APRIL 20~JUNE 29

The Taiwan International Festival of Arts (TIFA) is Taiwan's most important annual arts festival. A leading cultural event in Asia, it's jointly held at the National Theater and Concert Hall in Taipei, the National Taichung Theater in Taichung, and the National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts (Weiwuying) in Kaohsiung. This year there are a total of 129 riveting performances, featuring talent from France, Germany, Switzerland, Spain, Portugal, the United States, Canada, Israel, Singapore, South Korea, and Taiwan. npac-ntch.org/programs/series/tifa/ (National Performing Arts Center)

The Hakka people of Taiwan, a Han Chinese minority group that immigrated to the island starting in the early 17th century and often settled in hilly regions, especially those of northwest Taiwan, planted a large number of tung trees for commercial purposes during the Japanese colonial era (1895~1945). Today, the trees grow in the wild and, to the delight of hikers, bloom profusively in April and May, their snow-white blossoms covering tree branches and carpeting hiking trails. During the tung blossom season, numerous cultural events are held in celebration by Hakka communities in locations close to the forests. www.hakka.gov.tw (Hakka Affairs Council) www.penghu-nsa.gov.tw

This fireworks festival is a key event attracting tourists to the islands of Penghu during the earlysummer season. Staged each year since 2003, it features well-known Taiwan singers and bands performing on the venue’s stage. The amazing fireworks displays, romantic music, and sea of lanterns combine to create resplendent scenes at Magong City’s Guanyinting Recreation Area.

(Penghu National Scenic Area) ios.tw (Taiwan International Orchid Show) www.dbnsa.gov.tw (Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area)

This show has been held annually since 2005 at the Taiwan Orchid Biotechnology Park in Tainan City's Houbi District. It's a featured event on the international flower show calendar, along with the Japan Grand Prix International Orchid and Flower Show and the World Orchid Conference. Attracting thousands of visitors each year, the show is an important part of efforts to promote Taiwan's orchid industry. It features beautiful orchid displays and interesting arrangements and also incorporates cultural aspects and new biotech applications.

During this festival a variety of water-related activities and events are organized in Pingtung County’s Dapeng Bay area, including a sailing competition on the waters of the bay. Other fun activities involve canoeing, dragon-boat racing, stand-up paddling (SUP), jet skiing, and yachting. The event also features exhibitions promoting local industries such as agriculture, food, and tourism.